When Life Becomes a Rollercoaster, Trust Jesus
Life's adventures are full of ups and downs; many are life-threatening. But, through them all, trust Jesus. The world has no substitute.
"It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man." Psalm 118:8
Rollercoasters of Life
Do you like rollercoasters? If you do, you aren't alone. Countless souls strap themselves in for one of life's wild rides. But, of course, it could be your last adventure. Approximately four people die each year in the United States alone in rollercoaster accidents.
It's tragic when people die in "freak accidents" like this, but does this keep others from jumping on for a second or third thrill ride? Of course not! Why? Because of calculated risk, right?
Acceptable Risk: The Odds Are in Your Favor
Your chances of death by rollercoaster are one in 16 million. Compare that to your odds of death by a lightning strike which is one person in 700,000. Of course, get on a rollercoaster with thunderstorms, and you may leave some life insurance money for loved ones.
Consider this additional fact: 60% of ride injuries result from patrons' disregard for the safety rules. (Rollercoaster References: Webtribunal) These individuals either have limited cognitive horsepower, are potentially suicidal, or both.
Trust in the System: No Guarantees
Why am I focusing so much attention on rollercoasters as a metaphor for life's ups and downs? It's all about who you trust. No one in their right mind would get on a rollercoaster if they didn't trust the ride operator. You believe there are safety mechanisms and government regulations to ensure safety compliance. And, although there are still accidents and people die, you are gambling that you won't be one of the fatalities.
With the world, there will always be an added element of risk. You are always gambling with odds of success or failure. But, no matter how much you bet on the system, only death is guaranteed.
We all understand that death is inevitable whether in the highs or lows of life, whether engaged in base jumping or relaxing on the beach.
Scripture says,
"Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him." Hebrews 9:27-28
Trust in Jesus: 100% Guarantee
Unless the person is suicidal, no one will get on a rollercoaster doomed to destruction. So why would the same rational person place their trust in a worldview that assures their eternal destruction? Jesus, not the world, is the only way to Heaven.
Jesus is the only guarantee--100% guarantee--of salvation after the first death. In turning to Jesus before death, God makes this promise,
"Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death." Revelation 2:11
We can each run our race as if on "Bonus Time" here on earth. We can place our hope in Jesus and navigate life's highs and lows, ups, and downs, with prayer and purpose.
May God open every reader's ears and eyes to see the gift that awaits believers in Christ Jesus. May He grant you many rollercoaster rides in life with the assurance of safe arrival in Heaven.
